Northwest Nazarene University

The Conrad Student Commons serves as the front door for NNU’s campus. Here, prospective students get their first glimpse of campus life. Existing students take advantage of a variety of spaces that give everyone a reason to make planned and impromptu visits to the Commons. Lounge areas provide places where students can put their feet up and relax. Large meeting rooms provide spaces for campus organizations to meet and for collaborative work. And a wall of two-story windows allows natural light to flood the Commons, contributing to a bright, energetic atmosphere.

NNU shows students that their needs matter by providing spaces that can be rearranged to their activities. Tables and seating on casters make it easy for students to rearrange furnishings, whether they’re meeting with a friend or a large group. The flexibility of mobile furnishings, which easily reconfigure for large events, also helps NNU make the most of limited resources.

With a large number of students who commute, NNU administrators were very intentional about creating a Commons that supports a thriving culture of connection. The Commons also houses a variety of activities and services—including a dining hall, auditorium, and the Journeys Outfitting Company that equips students for outdoor experiences by providing gear, bike repair services, and activity planning.